License Renewal in Alabama
Here's exactly how to renew your Alabama driver's license — every route the state offers, what it costs, and what to do if it's already expired. Start below, or ask Sam about your exact case.
How to renew your driver's license in Alabama
If you plan to drive a vehicle in Alabama, you will be required to hold a valid AL driver's license. Pay attention to the date specified on your license, as you'll need to make sure to renew your driver's license before it expires.
The Alabama Driver License Department (DLD) of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) is responsible for processing all driver license applications, including renewals.
If you currently hold another type of driver's license or permit, please jump to any the following links for more information:
Alabama STAR IDs
The Alabama DLD began issuing federally-compliant REAL ID driver’s licenses, called a STAR ID in Alabama, in place of standard driver’s licenses in 2011. If you don't already have a STAR ID, you can receive one upon renewal. Your required documents are listed below. For details, see the DPS' guide to STAR IDs.
When to Renew Your AL Driver's License
NOTE: If you recently moved and have not yet updated your address with the Alabama DPS, make sure to do so within 30 days of the move. For more information, please see our Changing Your Address page.
Your Alabama driver's license is valid for 4 years at a time. The Driver License Department of the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) allows you to renew your driver's license 180 days before it expires, and even gives you a "grace period" of 60 days after it expires in which your license will still be valid.
You can renew your AL driver's license without having to take an examination as long as you process the renewal within 3 years after it expires.
Remember, DO NOT operate your vehicle without a valid driver's license.
Lost, Stolen, Damaged, or Expired Licenses
Check Your AL Driver's License Status
Not sure if your driver's license is valid or suspended? Find out by ordering your AL driving record online.Renewal requirements slightly differ if your license has been:
- Lost or stolen.
- Damaged beyond readability.
OR - Already expired.
Renew Your Alabama Driver's License
Depending on your eligibility, you can renew your AL STAR ID driver's license:
- Online.
- By mail.
- In person at your local AL DPS office.
The Alabama DPS will accept your renewal application up to 180 days before your driver's license expires and up to 3 years after it expires without needing to re-take any tests.
Out-of-State & Military License Renewal
Military Stationed in Germany
If you are currently stationed in Germany, please be aware that some states require you to have a valid U.S. driver's license in addition to your USAREUR license. Read our article for more information.
You may renew your license by mail only if you've obtained a AL driver's license with your photo and signature within the last 4 years, and you're:
- Military personnel or the dependent of someone in the military.
- See our Drivers in the Military page.
- A college student who's away from home.
OR
- A resident who's temporarily out of the state due to work.
If this is you, you may apply within 60 days of your expiration date. You'll need to:
- Complete the Application for a Renewal License for Alabama Drivers Temporarily Out of State.
- Obtain a money order for $36.25 made payable to the Driver License Department.
- Gather proof of your reason for being out of state, such as a copy of your military ID and orders or your student ID and enrollment papers, or a certification letter on company letterhead from your employer.
- Provide your full name, birth date, AL driver's license number, and Social Security number (SSN).
Mail all of the above to:
Alabama Department of Public Safety
Driver License Department
P.O. Box 1471
Montgomery, AL 36102
Fees to Renew Your AL Driver's License
The cost to renew your AL driver's license is $36.25 for 4 years.
NOTE: Some AL driver's license offices are permitted to charge higher prices for renewal applications. For specific pricing details, contact your local AL DPS office.
Accepted Payment Methods
The Alabama DPS does NOT accept checks.
If you submit your Alabama renewal application by mail, you must send payment via a money order made payable to the “Driver License Department."
When renewing your AL driver's license in person, you can pay by cash or money order only.
While you're at it
Renewal is the moment most people discover something else is out of date. Here's what's worth checking.
Frequently asked questions
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